Township certified as film ready

The film industry was born in New Jersey on Feb. 1, 1893, when Thomas Edison opened the Black Maria studio in West Orange - the first motion picture studio in the world.

Since then, the state’s film industry has experienced cycles of growth and decline, largely influenced by the availability of government incentives.

In recent years, New Jersey saw a downturn in film production as other states and countries offered lower costs and more generous tax benefits. But that tide is turning.

Under the Gov. Phil Murphy, the state has expanded tax credits to revitalize the industry and position New Jersey as a premier destination for film and television production. A flagship example is Netflix’s planned $903 million state-of-the-art studio; a ground-breaking ceremony was held May 13 at at Fort Monmouth, where the studio is being built.

Aligning with this statewide push, West Milford has earned a film ready certification through a program offered by the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC).

The program aims to attract film and TV productions to the township, spurring economic growth, supporting local businesses, and showcasing West Milford’s natural beauty and historical charm.

Councilman David Marsden was introduced to the film ready program at a New Jersey League of Municipalities meeting, and he brought it to the Township Council.

During discussions, officials addressed the benefits and potential logistical concerns, such as traffic and parking.

A township ordinance specifies that gilming will be scheduled during off-peak hours to avoid rush-hour congestion and designated parking will ensure that local businesses remain accessible. Filming locations and schedules will be posted well in advance on the township’s social media and website.

Five-step process

To achieve film ready status, West Milford completed a five-step certification process designed to educate and equip municipalities with the best practices for accommodating film productions:

Township Administrator Bill Senande attended a “How to Become a Film Ready Community” workshop and he was named West Milford’s liaison to the NJMPTVC.

An ordinance outlining requirements for film productions took effect May 13.

Photos of scenic and other potential filming locations were submitted to the NJMPTVC website, where location scouts can view them before conducting site visits on foot or via drone.

And a comprehensive list of local services, including restaurants, construction and office supplies, car rentals, and security services, was uploaded to the NJMPTVC database to support visiting productions.

Mayor Michele Dale expressed appreciation for the council’s efforts, emphasizing that such initiatives strengthen the local economy and build community pride.

Already on screen

West Milford is no stranger to the spotlight. Its scenic landscapes and historic sites have drawn filmmakers.

Notable films shot in the township include “The Station Agent” in 2003, which was filmed at the old Newfoundland train station on Route 23; “Clinton Road” in 2019, featuring Ice-T and Eric Roberts; and “Simpler Times” in 2015, with Ben Stiller and Anne Meara.

More recently, “Mother, Father, Sister, Brother,” starring Cate Blanchett, Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik and Tom Waits, was filmed in part in West Milford and awaits a release date.

TV also has found a home in West Milford. A 2023 episode of
”The Sopranos” was shot at Big John’s Pub in Newfoundland, and a 2024 episode of “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” was filmed in the same area.

Currently, a film is under way at the home of a Township councilwoman; her brother, a film producer, is leading the project.